System and apparatus for mitigating of bad posture and property loss through computer-assisted appliance

ABSTRACT

A wireless, programmable system, including one or more sensors devices, a controller device, and a wireless communication link that operationally connects the sensor device to the controller device(s). The system may alert when a sensor device and controller device exceed a predetermined threshold of distance and/or time. Controller device(s) may also be, or in addition to, a handheld computer device, such as a smartphone. In some other embodiments, the system may be used to detect body positions and/or train a user to achieve desired postures.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation-in-part application of, andclaims priority to, co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/549,057, filed Jul. 13, 2012, which claims priority to thenco-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/507,255,filed on Jul. 13, 2011. The disclosures of these foregoing applicationsare incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The novel technology relates generally to the field of electronicdevices, and, more specifically, to electronic personal and propertysecurity devices.

BACKGROUND

Many activities performed on a frequent basis, such as riding in avehicle or locating items, present repeated and unnecessary hindrancesto everyday lives. A great deal of time and energy is spent looking forcar keys or a smartphone, and habituation of bad habits, such as badposture, further affect health and wellness.

Miniaturization of technologies presents a potential boon to resolvingthese hindrances. However, most technologies aimed at resolving sucheveryday hindrances require excessively sized solutions and/orcomplicated configuration routines. Ultimately, what is needed is acompact, simple solution for location and awareness in one's life.

The present novel technology addresses these needs.

SUMMARY

The present novel technology relates to object location and specialawareness systems.

The details of one or more embodiments of the subject matter describedin this specification are set forth in the accompanying drawings and thedescription below. Other features, aspects, and advantages of thesubject matter will become apparent from the description, the drawings,and the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a schematic diagram of a System of a first embodiment ofthe present novel technology.

FIG. 2A depicts a schematic representation of a subset of System in theembodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2B depicts a second schematic representation of a subset of Systemin the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3A depicts a first schematic representation of the System of FIG.1.

FIG. 3B depicts a second schematic representation of the System of FIG.1.

FIG. 4A depicts screenshots for portions of the System of FIG. 1, morespecifically a Home page.

FIG. 4B depicts screenshots for portions of the System of FIG. 1, morespecifically an Overview and Instructions page.

FIG. 5A depicts screenshots for portions of the System of FIG. 1, morespecifically a Device Status and Settings page.

FIG. 5B depicts screenshots for portions of the System of FIG. 1, morespecifically a Sensor Manager page.

FIG. 6 depicts screenshots for portions of the System of FIG. 1, morespecifically a Posture and Position Settings page.

FIG. 7A depicts sample screenshots for portions of the System of FIG. 1,more specifically a Biofeedback Alerts page.

FIG. 7B depicts sample screenshots for portions of the System of FIG. 1,more specifically a How to Attach Sensors page.

FIG. 8 depicts sample screenshots for portions of the System of FIG. 1,more specifically a Progress Chart page.

FIG. 9 depicts a high-level diagram of a second implementation of theSystem.

FIG. 10A depicts a first block diagram of certain components of theSystem of FIG. 9.

FIG. 10B depicts a second block diagram of an example computer deviceassociated with the System of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11A depicts a first functional schematic representation of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a controller and sensors in operating range.

FIG. 11B depicts a second functional schematic representation of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a controller and sensors beyond operating rangewith triggered alarm.

FIG. 11C depicts a third functional schematic representation of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a controller and sensors returned to operatingrange.

FIG. 12A depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a controller, sensor(s), and computer device inoperating range.

FIG. 12B depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a controller, sensor(s), and computer devicebeyond operating range, triggering all alarms.

FIG. 12C depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a controller, sensor(s), and computer devicereturned to operating range.

FIG. 13A depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a computer device and sensor(s) in operatingrange.

FIG. 13B depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a computer device and sensor(s) beyond operatingrange, triggering alarms in both devices.

FIG. 13C depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a computer device and sensors with one sensorbeyond operating range, triggering alarms in computer device andout-of-range sensor.

FIG. 13D depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a computer device and sensor(s) returned tooperating range.

FIG. 14A depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a controller having a built-in panicbutton/actuator device configuration that may initiate distress callsand/or messages to emergency services and/or third parties.

FIG. 14B depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a computer device having a built-in panicbutton/actuator device configuration that may initiate distress callsand/or messages to emergency services and/or third parties.

FIG. 15A depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a controller having a panic button and a staticcomputer device connected to a landline communication service.

FIG. 15B depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a first, handheld computer device having a panicbutton and a second, static computer device connected to a landlinecommunication service communicating with third-parties and/or emergencyservices.

FIG. 15C depicts a schematic demonstrating the functionality of theSystem of FIG. 9 with a first, mobile computer device having a panicbutton communicating with a landline communication service via a second,static computer device.

FIG. 16A illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a Home page.

FIG. 16B illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a System Overview and Instructions page.

FIG. 16C illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a Protected List page.

FIG. 16D illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a Device Settings page.

FIG. 16E illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically an Emergency Notifications page.

FIG. 16F illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a “911” Assistance page.

FIG. 16G illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a first Definitions page.

FIG. 16H illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a second Definitions page.

FIG. 16I illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a Find and Seek page.

FIG. 16J illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically a Test System page.

FIG. 16K illustrates screenshot of the System of FIG. 9, morespecifically an Alerts page.

FIG. 17A depicts a first block diagram associated with the System ofFIG. 9, including a communication device enabled for remote activationof emergency call functionality in the FIG. 9.

FIG. 17B depicts a second block diagram associated with the System ofFIG. 9, including a communication device enabled for remote activationof emergency call functionality in the FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of thenovel technology and presenting its currently understood best mode ofoperation, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated inthe drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. Itwill nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of thenovel technology is thereby intended, with such alterations and furthermodifications in the illustrated devices and such further applicationsof the principles of the novel technology as illustrated therein beingcontemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to whichthe novel technology relates. Some embodiments may omit some of thecomponents of system 100, and some embodiments may include othercomponents as well. The illustrated embodiments in the drawings areintended to be exemplary only.

FIG. 1 depicts the present novel technology as a system 100 and itscomponent devices and representative parts of the body monitored forpositional changes. System 100 includes one and/or more sensor devices102 programmed to detect changes in posture and/or body position throughan internal gyroscope and/or based on wireless measurement of thedistance between another sensor 102. Each sensor may typically include abuilt-in vibration, visual, and/or sound device activated by changes inbody position. Such changes are also wirelessly communicated to a remotecontroller 101 that also has built-in sound and/or vibration devices.Controller 101 may be a specially-made transceiver device, and aconventional, programmable device on which system software 401 may beinstalled (e.g., smartphone, handheld computer, PDA, PC, etc.).Controller 101 maintains a communication link 201 with each sensor,typically via BLUETOOTH (BLUETOOTH is a registered trademark of SIG,Inc., a Delaware corporation, located at 5209 Lake Washington Boulevard,Suite 350, Kirkland, Wash. 98033), infrared, radio frequency, and/orother technologies. Sensors 102 are attached to and/or worn on aperson's body (or on clothing and/or accessories) through adhesion,straps, hair and/or other clips, bindings and/or other mechanisms 114.For certain embodiments of system 100, system software 401 may beinstalled on controller 101, which may display on an internal screenand/or external monitor real-time body position information based oncommunication from one and/or more sensors. In some implementations, aswill be described elsewhere in this application, controller 101 may be aspecially made device and/or a conventional computing device (e.g., asmartphone, PDA, laptop, desktop, etc.), which may in turn be programmedwith system software 401.

In operation, system 100 may be designed to provide a user with almostimmediate feedback about changes in body position and/or posture. Suchbiofeedback may be used to teach and/or train a user to avoidundesirable, and/or achieve desired, body positions and/or postures. Todo so, each sensor 102, typically having the form of a fob-like object,may be actuated automatically to notify the user by an alarm (vibrationand/or sound) once either and/or both (i) it deviates from and/orachieves, preset, horizontal and/or vertical planes; and/or (ii) itcomes within a preset range of, and/or moves more than a preset distancefrom, another sensor. Once an alarm is actuated in a sensor, a similarvibration and/or sound alarm may also be wirelessly activated incontroller 101, and/or the sound in controller 101 may be programmed tobe identical to that of the specific sensor that triggers the initialalarm. By being attached to and/or worn, directly and/or indirectly(e.g., skin, shirt, headband, hairclip, eyeglass frame, etc.), onspecific parts of the body, once an alarm is activated in a sensor, theuser typically may be able to feel the vibration on and/or about thebody part. Sensors 102 may have individualized digital signaturesrecognized by controller 101 through wireless communication system 201so as to distinguish it from other sensors that may be part of system100.

The controller 101 remotely controls the settings for each sensor 102through wireless communication system 201. Settings may includehorizontal and/or vertical planes; sound and/or vibration alarms;distances and/or ranges between sensors; and/or associations of eachsensor with a body part. An alarm (audible and/or vibratory) may be setoff in controller 101 and/or sensor if either of both (x) a body part towhich a sensor is affixed deviates from, and/or achieves, presethorizontal and/or vertical planes; and/or (y) two and/or more pairedsensors move beyond, and/or come within, preset ranges and/or distancesof each other.

The sensors 102 typically may be small (e.g., the size of a quarterand/or half dollar coin), battery powered programmable transceivers.They may be attached to and/or worn on a user's body and/or clothesthrough various means, including adhesive backing, straps, hair and/orother clips, and/or bands. Each sensor 102 may be programmed with adistinct alarm sound and/or volume. Devices in system 100 typically maycommunicate with each other using BLUETOOTH, WI-FI, direct-to-device(D2D) communication protocols (e.g., WI-FI DIRECT (WI-FI DIRECT is aregistered trademark of Wi-Fi Alliance, a California corporation,located at 10900-B Stonelake Boulevard, Suite 126, Austin, Tex. 78759);Long Term Evolution (LTE) D2D (LTE is a registered trademark of InstitutEuropéen des Normes; a French nonprofit telecommunication association,located at 650 route des Lucioles, F-06921, Sophia Antipolis, France),LTE Advanced (LTE-A) D2D, etc.), radio wave, and/or other technologies201.

FIG. 2A illustrates certain internal components of the devices includedin system 100, which are intended to be exemplary only. As shown in FIG.2A, each sensor 102 includes a housing containing circuitry and/or othercomponents that may include the following:

-   -   (i) A data processor and/or microprocessor 103.    -   (ii) An on-off switch 104.    -   (iii) An orientation device 105 (e.g., gyroscope, accelerometer,        etc.) for detecting and/or communicating pitch, roll, and/or yaw        of sensor 102;    -   (iv) Circuitry for external data communication with controller        device 101 and/or in certain embodiments other sensors 102,        including a transmitter 106, receiver 107, and/or an antenna 108        that transforms electromagnetic energy to electrical signals        provided to receiver 107, and/or transforms electrical signals        from transmitter 106 to electromagnetic energy for transmission        to remote radio receivers in controller 101 and/or other sensors        102. Receiver 107 responds to the electrical signals from        antenna 108 to produce detected data for supervisor device 109.        Receiver 107 may include circuits such as filters and/or        demodulators. Transmitter 106 responds to formatted data from        supervisor device 109 to provide the electrical signals to drive        antenna 108. Transmitter 106 may include circuits such as        modulators and/or filters. Antenna 108, receiver 107 and/or        transmitter 106 together form a radio communication circuit for        two-way radio and/or other wireless communication with remote        radio devices such as controller 101 and/or other sensors 102.    -   (v) One or more supervisor devices 109 to control the operation        of each sensor 102, which may be implemented as a processor,        microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any other        logic circuit and/or combination of circuits providing control        functions; and/or may operate in response to data and/or to        program instructions stored in memory 110; and/or may also        control radio and/or other wireless communication circuit        components (e.g., 106, 107, 108) by directing the tuning,        activation, and/or deactivation of the circuit.    -   (vi) A memory unit and/or device 110 capable of storing data.    -   (vii) A vibration device 111 that causes sensor 102 to vibrate.    -   (viii) A speaker and/or other sound system 112 capable of        emitting a variety of sounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong,        etc.).    -   (ix) A power source 113 (e.g., battery, power supply, capacitor,        etc.) and/or conductors 113 to operate sensor 102.    -   (x) Attachment mechanisms and/or devices 114 by which sensor 102        may be affixed to and/or worn on and/or about a person's body.        Such systems and/or devices may include adhesives, hook-and-loop        fasteners, like backings, and/or clips.

Also as shown in FIG. 2B, controller 101 may be a device wirelesslylinked to and/or and or controlling of the settings/communications ofsensor 102. Controller 101 may be a specially-made transceiver deviceand/or a conventional device (e.g., smartphone, PDA and/or computer) onwhich software programs 401 may be installed, in either case that mayinclude a housing, circuitry, and/or other components that may includeall and/or some of the following:

-   -   (i) An internal display screen and/or external monitor 302        enabling a user to view menu options, obtain information about        and/or program sensors 102.    -   (ii) User Interface 303 comprised of a keyboard, keypad,        touchscreen, etc. to let user enter data and/or perform        programming functions. In some implementations, screen 302 may        be user interface 303 (e.g., as a touchscreen).    -   (iii) A memory unit and/or device 110 capable of storing data.    -   (iv) A speaker and/or other sound system 112 capable of emitting        a variety of sounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.).    -   (v) A vibration device 111 that causes controller 101 to        vibrate.    -   (vi) A wireless communication system 307 (e.g., transmitter 106,        receiver 107, and/or antenna 108) for BLUETOOTH, radio wave        and/or other communications with each sensor 102.    -   (vii) A data processor and/or microprocessor 103.    -   (viii) A supervisor device 109 that may be implemented as a        processor, microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP),        and/or any other logic circuit and/or combination of circuits        providing control functions. It may operate in response to data        and/or to program instructions stored in memory 110, and/or may        control radio and/or other wireless communication circuit 307 by        directing the tuning, activation, and/or deactivation of the        circuit.    -   (ix) A power source (e.g., battery, line power, capacitors,        etc.) and/or conductors 113.    -   (x) An on-off switch 104.    -   (xi) Programs and/or operating systems 312 to enable system        software and/or application 401 to be installed and/or run on        controller 101, which software and/or application may be        configured as computer readable program code and/or stored in        device's memory 110.

FIGS. 3A-3B illustrates a first embodiment of the present, novel system100 for training users to attain and/or maintain targeted posture and/orother positions for different parts of the body. The training may beprovided through signals (i.e., vibration, sound and/or visual alarmsand/or alerts) transmitted to a user and/or activated by measuredchanges in posture and/or position. Those signals are provided by oneand/or more sensors 102 and/or in some embodiments a controller 101.Controller 101 typically may be used to program sensors 102 with postureand/or position parameters (e.g., desired vertical and/or horizontalplanes, ranges/distances between sensors 102, etc.). In someembodiments, controller 101 may also illustrate posture and/or bodyposition information through a display, typically based on data fromsensors 102 and/or historical records. Each sensor 102 may be directlyand/or indirectly (i.e., through clothes and/or accessories) attached toand/or worn on a specific part of a user's body. Those parts of the bodytypically may be selected based on certain activities the user engagesin where biofeedback information and/or training may enhance appearance,performance, health and/or safety. Selected activities may be as simpleas standing and/or sitting with head held high and back erect; and/or ascomplicated as skiing with legs shoulder-width apart, knees bent at afifty degree angle, and hips centered over the ball of the feet; ascritical as keeping a head up and staying awake while driving; and/orthe like.

Sensors 102 typically may be placed on the body and/or worn. Forexample, sensors 102 may be located on an individual's back, skull,neck, boot, foot, leg, chest, hip, and/or the like. Depending on thedesired monitoring and/or feedback, one or more sensors 102 may form amesh to inform controller 101 of various parameters of posture,activity, and/or the like.

The sensor detects and/or activates an alarm when a user attains and/ordeviates from a targeted posture and/or position by measuring changes inthe user's horizontal and/or vertical fields, and/or by wirelesslymeasuring distances between two and/or more of such devices. Forexample, if one sensor is attached to a user's right shoulder, and/or asecond is attached to a user's left shoulder, controller 101 sets atarget position when both shoulders are arched backward. The coordinatesfor that target position typically may be represented by either or both(x) the distance between the devices and/or (y) the horizontal/verticalplanes of each device. If the user slouches forward, the targeteddistance may be exceeded and/or planes change; either of which activatesan alarm.

Biofeedback information and/or training may be provided via the alarmsfrom sensors 102 and/or in certain embodiments from controller 101.Those alarms typically may be activated when either (x) the userdeviates from a preset position and/or posture (which may be adjustedwith tolerances so that a deviation typically may be more than a presetdegree (e.g., ten, fifteen, thirty, etc. degrees) and/or for more than apreset period of time (e.g., two, five, twenty, etc. seconds, minutes,hours, etc.) before the alarm is activated); and/or (y) the userachieves a preset, targeted position and/or posture. The devices areprogrammed so that the alarm typically may continue until a deviation iscorrected. By way of example, if a user attaches a sensor 102 to hishead and/or neck while driving, vibratory and/or audible alarmstypically may be activated in that sensor, and/or in certain embodimentscontroller, if, having fallen asleep, the user's head tilts so as todeviate by more than fifteen degrees in any direction for more than fiveseconds from sensor's preset vertical plane. As another example, if askier has sensors 102 on the front and/or back of a ski boot, and oneach hip and/or knee, vibratory and/or audible alarms typically may beactivated in each sensor and/or controller 101 once the user attains apreset stance with the right and left feet a distance apart (e.g.,one-half, one, two, etc. feet) apart, the knees bent at a fifty degreeangle, and/or the hips centered over the heels.

Each sensor 102 typically may have a unique digital signal that allowscontroller 101, through wireless communication link 201, to programsettings for that sensor (e.g., sounds, body position targets, permitteddeviations, etc.), and/or to distinguish each sensor from others.Controller 101 has unique digital signals that allow it to communicatewith each sensor 102. Controller 101 maintains its communication linksto each sensor 102 via a BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio and/or likecommunication system 201.

FIGS. 4A-4B illustrates one embodiment of a menu system of, and otherscreenshots for, system 100 that typically may utilize a device on whichsystem software 401 has been installed (e.g., smartphone, PDA, PC,laptop, etc.). FIG. 4 also illustrates certain functionalities of system100, and the “look and feel” of system software and/or application 401.It is to be noted that the illustrated menu system and/or screenshotsare exemplary only. Other menu systems and/or screenshots/pages may bereadily developed and/or provide additional functionalities and/orcapabilities.

Home page/main menu 601 typically may be a sample screen/page of systemsoftware program/application 401. The menu gives users various optionsfor configuring and/or using system 100 and/or its devices. Theselections of subpages accessed through main menu 601 typically areillustrated in 602-608. By clicking on a link to a subpage in main menu601, that subpage appears on the screen. From any subpage (e.g.,602-608), by clicking on a “Main Menu” link, the user typically may bereturned to home page/main menu 601.

System Overview and Instructions screen/page 602 provides the user withbrief descriptions of different system 100 components and/or softwarefeatures. This page typically instructs the user in the operation ofsystem 100 and/or describes its component devices and/or functions. Byclicking on any definitional and/or descriptive item highlighted on thispage, another subpage opens on the screen with information and/oractions the user may perform.

Depicted on FIG. 5A, device status & settings screen/page 603 typicallyprovides the user with a detailed inventory of sensors 102; the bodyparts/positions with which the sensors are associated; and/or thesound/vibration settings for the sensors and/or controller 101. The pagealso allows the user to see the status (“on”/“off”) of each sensor,and/or directs the user to modify sensor 102 and/or controller 101settings and/or add information by clicking on a “Device Manager” link.

For example, sensor “1” may have a status of “On,” be located on theuser's right shoulder, and have an enabled sound alarm like a bell.Additionally, sensor “3” may have a status of “Off,” be located on theuser's center upper back, and have a sound alarm like a gong. Devicestatus & settings screen/page 603 may also include settings such asvibration, auditory, and/or visual alarm settings and/or state. Theremay also be links to modify and/or add sensors 102, which typically mayredirect the user to device manager screen/page 604.

Depicted on FIG. 5B, device manager screen/page 604 provides variousprogramming functions to manage system devices. Users typically may setparameters for sensors 102 and/or controller 101. Those parameterstypically include (i) activating audible alarms in sensors and/orcontroller, (ii) selecting a specific audible sound for each sensor,(iii) activating a vibration alarm in controller, (iv) setting permitteddeviations from targeted positions, (v) designating the period of time adeviation in position may be permitted to continue before an alarmtypically may be activated in a sensor, (vi) assigning a number to eachsensor, (vii) associating each sensor with a specific part and/or areaof the user's body, and/or the like.

For example, device manager screen/page 604 typically may includesettings for user information, which sensors 102 are enabled, how sensor102 may turn on, turn off, provide alarms, and/or customize alarms(e.g., bell, chime, gong, siren, etc.), where the sensor 102 is located,and/or the like. Alarm conditions for sensor 102 alarms may also beconfigured. For example, deviation-based alarms and/or achievement-basedalarms may be configured. Deviation-based alarms typically may be usedwhere a user may wish to avoid certain postures and/or positions, suchas holding a head upright. Deviations, for example, may be configured indistance, percentage of deviation (e.g., 1%, 2%, 10%, 50%, etc.) from anexpected position, and/or the like. Similarly, achievement-based alarmstypically may be used to train a user to attain a posture and/orposition. For example, this may trigger an alarm when you sit upright,allowing the user feedback that he or she is properly oriented.Tolerance with these alarms may also be configured, such that sensor 102typically may not trigger unless a deviation threshold is exceeded.

Depicted on FIG. 6, posture & position screen/page 605 allows users toprogram targeted positions and/or postures for sensors 102. From thisscreen, a user may select a prescribed activity (e.g., standing,sitting, driving, skiing, etc.), which may then open a body avatar onwhich the user may virtually place one and/or more sensors. With asensor attached to the user's body, he and/or she may then changepositions in order to create a targeted posture and/or pose that may besaved. This page/screen also illustrates permitted deviations fromtargeted positions. Once a targeted position has been saved, the usermay proceed to a biofeedback session, and/or typically may be “trained”by receiving vibration and/or sound and/or visual alarms/alerts wheneverhe and/or she deviates from, and/or achieves, that target.

Depicted on FIG. 7A, alerts screen/page 606 provides additionalbiofeedback information to users. Unless deactivated by a user for anactivity, the screen may automatically open each time an alarm typicallymay be activated by one and/or more sensors 102. The screen typicallyprovides real-time notifications and/or visual displays of deviationsfrom, and/or attainment of, targeted postures and/or positions. Alertsscreen/page 606 typically may also allow a system 100 user to turn offalerts, customize alert deviation threshold, reset sensors 102, and/orthe like. In some further implementations, selections may be providedfor saved activities and/or postures. For example, a user may selectfrom a drop-down list of sports, postures, and/or combinations thereoffor one or more body parts to customize and/or set system 100parameters. In yet further implementations, these saved selections mayalso enable and/or disable one or more sensors 102 temporarily and/orpermanently so as to cease alarms that may otherwise be generated.

Depicted on FIG. 7B, How to Attach Sensors screen/page 607 providesinstructions for attaching sensors 102 to parts of the user's body. Auser typically may be instructed how sensors 102 should be attached tobody parts, clothing, accessories, and/or the like. In someimplementations, selecting one or more body parts on How to AttachSensors screen/page 607 (i.e., by clicking on an image, selecting from alist, and/or the like) may generate one or more instruction routines forattachment to that selection.

As depicted on FIG. 8, Progress Chart screen/page 608 typically mayprovide historical and/or real-time data to a user about progress inreaching and/or maintaining targeted posture and/or position goals. Fromthis screen/page 608, a user may select the activity he and/or shewishes to monitor, and/or may view a graphic representation of progressin relation to the established target for that activity. For example, auser may be able to view his or her posture history graphically and/orstatistically as a series of images, graphic, video, and/or the like.Such display may, in some implementations, allow predictive displays aswell. For example, based on a user's progress historically, the systemmay analyze and calculate to predict (numerically, graphically, and/orthe like) how a user will look at a given timeframe and/or when a usermay reach a certain posture/position. In certain embodiments, a user mayrecord a real-time representation of posture/position changes during anactivity and/or play the recording back to gauge progress.

Another implementation of the present novel technology may be for use asa personal security and location system. FIG. 9 depicts a high-leveldiagram of this implementation of system 100. FIG. 9 diagrams system 100and/or its component devices and/or relationships. System 100 includes acontroller 101 that uses battery and/or other power sources and/ortypically may be programmed to communicate with one and/or more othersensor devices 102 via BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio frequency, audioand/or other technologies 201. Typically, controller 101 typically maybe lightweight and/or small such that controller 101 may be easilyportable and/or even concealable. For example, controller 101 maytypically be kept in a user's pocket and/or worn on a necklace and/orbracelet, and/or as a specially-designed wristwatch. In otherimplementations, controller 101 may be of waterproof and/or shockresistant design so as to be wearable in a pool, bath and/or shower.Typically, sensors 102 are physically attached to, placed in, on and/orabout an object 903. Object 903 may be a thing, a person, and/or a pet.In some implementations, sensors 102 may be affixed to an enclosurecontaining object 903. In some implementations system 100 may alsoinclude one and/or more computer devices 906. In such implementations,one and/or more of one and/or more computer devices 906 may havetelecommunication, radio communication, and/or the like capabilities.System software program 401 typically may be installed on computerdevices 906.

In other implementations of system 100, controller 101 may includeadditional sensors, buttons, indicators, and/or the like. For example,described below in this application, a built-in actuator/Panic buttonthat automatically causes a computer device 906 to dial “911” and/orother numbers and/or solicit help by be include with system 100. Thevolume and/or sound of the audible alarm for controller 101 and/or eachsensor 102 (and in certain implementations, a computer device 906) maybe set by the user to possess one or more distinguishing sounds and/orvolumes.

In operation, controller device 101, having a form of a fob and/or likeobject typically may be actuated automatically to emit a sound and/orvibration once either (i) a communication link to a sensor 102, whichalso has the form of a fob and/or like object typically may be broken byvirtue of controller 101 and/or sensor 102 being separated from eachother by further than a programmable, defined distance and/or range asthe result of theft, inadvertence and/or other reasons; and/or (ii)after being separated, controller 101 and/or a sensor device 102 arebrought back within the defined distance and/or range of each other.Each sensor 102 typically may have an individualized digital signaturerecognized by controller device 101 (an in some implementations acomputer device 906 through wireless communication system 201 so as todistinguish it from other sensor devices 102 that may be part of system100. In certain implementations, a computer device 906 may function as acontroller 101 and/or sensor 102 (e.g., as disclosed in FIGS. 12 and13).

The controller 101, and/or in some implementations computer device 906,may set distance and/or range for each sensor 102, and/or if person,object, and/or pet 903 to which sensor 102 typically may be affixedmoves beyond that distance and/or range, an alarm (audible and/orvibratory) typically may be set off in controller 101 and/or sensor 102(and in certain implementations, a computer device 906. System 100 mayalso be used in reverse so that, by example, if after moving beyondpreset distance and/or range, an object, person, and/or pet to whichsensor 102 typically may be attached moves back within range ofcontroller, such alarm typically may again be set off in all devices.

The sensors 102 may typically be small (e.g., the size of a quarterand/or half dollar coin), programmable transceivers operated by batteryand/or other power source(s). Sensors 102 may be carried upon and/or inan object, person, and/or pet 903 and/or attached through variousmechanism, including adhesive backing, an eyelet permitting sensor 102to be worn on a necklace, bracelet, etc. Each sensor 102 typically maybe programmable through its own user interface (and/or in someimplementations by controller 101 and/or computer device 906 so as tohave a distinct alarm sound and/or volume. When separated fromcontroller 101 by more than a distance and/or range that may beadjustable and/or prescribed by a user, sensor 102, and/or controller101, and in certain implementations a computer device 906, each emitsthe distinct alarm sound programmed for such sensor for a fixed periodof time. Conversely, once separated by being moved beyond the prescribeddistance and/or radius, the alarms typically may again sound in sensor102 and/or controller 101, and in certain implementations, computerdevice 906 once sensor typically may be brought back within range ofcontroller (and in certain implementations, computer device 906).

Devices in system 100 typically may communicate with each other usingBLUETOOTH, Wi-Fi, radio wave, infrared, and/or other technologies 201.In that way controller 101 and/or one and/or more computer devices 906may communicate with and/or control the operations of, one and/or moresensors 102, including setting sound alert tones and/or volumes, and/orprescribing distances and/or radiuses governing when alarms aretriggered, etc.

FIG. 10A depicts a block diagram of certain components of system 100.FIG. 10 illustrates certain internal components of the devices includedin system 100, which are intended to be exemplary only. Controller 101typically includes a housing (which in certain implementations may be ofwaterproof design) containing circuitry and/or other components,described below.

In certain implementations, a built-in actuator (Panic button) capableof initiating automated dialing and/or messaging functions in a computerdevice 906 in the event of emergencies (described below) may beincluded.

A vibration device 111 typically may be included that causes controller101 to vibrate as an indicator that a sensor 102 in system 100 has beenlost and/or found: that is, it has been moved beyond a preset distanceand/or range from controller 101, and/or once out of range, has beenbrought back within a preset distance and/or range from controller 101.

Circuitry for external data and/or other communications with one and/ormore sensors 102 and in certain implementations computer devices 906,including a receiver 107, a transmitter 106, and an antenna 108typically may facilitate intercommunication between system 100components. Antenna 108 typically transforms electromagnetic energy toelectrical signals provided to receiver 107 and transforms electricalsignals from transmitter 106 to electromagnetic energy for transmissionto remote radio receivers in one and/or more sensor devices and incertain implementations, one and/or more computer devices 906. Receiver107 responds to the electrical signals from antenna 108 to producedetected data for supervisor device 109. Receiver 107 may includecircuits such as filters and/or demodulators. Transmitter 106 respondsto formatted data from supervisor device 109 to provide the electricalsignals to drive antenna 108. Transmitter 106 may include circuits suchas modulators and/or filters. Antenna 108, receiver 107, and/ortransmitter 106 together form a radio communication circuit for two-wayradio and/or other wireless communication with remote radio devices suchas one and/or more sensors 102, and in certain implementations oneand/or more computer devices 906.

Supervisor device 109 typically may act to control the operation ofcontroller 101. Supervisor device 109 may be implemented as a processor,microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any other logiccircuit and/or combination of circuits providing control functions.Supervisor device 109 operates in response to data and/or programinstructions stored in memory 110. In one mode, supervisor device 109typically controls radio and/or other wireless communication circuit bydirecting the tuning, activation, and/or deactivation of the circuit.

An on-off switch 104 typically may act to energize connected circuitry,which in certain implementations may include an LED and/or otherindicator to show when controller device 101 typically may be active.

A memory unit and/or device 110 typically may be included that iscapable of storing data and/or program instructions for operation ofcontroller 101 and/or other system 100 components.

A user interface 303 typically may allow a user to control controllerdevice 101, which in certain implementations includes a push button,touchscreen, and/or other built-in actuator device to let the user toselect programming options for sensor device (e.g., alarm sounds, volumeand/or range settings), and/or a display screen sufficiently large todisplay requisite programming and/or other information for controller101. In certain implementations, the user interface may enable the userto select programming options for sensors 102 (e.g., alarm sounds and/orrange settings). In still other implementations, user interface 303 maybe obviated and/or omitted.

A battery and/or other power source 113 typically may be included toprovide sufficient power to operate controller 101 and/or facilitatemobility.

A speaker and/or other sound system 112 capable of emitting a variety ofsounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.) to indicate that asensor 102 has deviated beyond a certain threshold typically may allowsystem 100 to announce separation distance(s) being exceeded. In certainimplementations, controller 101 may include and/or or be replaced bycomputer device 906. Speaker 112 may, in some implementations, alsoenergize after sensor 102 is brought back within a preset distanceand/or range.

Mechanisms for attaching controller 101 and/or sensor 102 may beincluded, such as eyelet 115 and/or similar construction and/orattachments to the housing through which a chain, ring, etc. may beinserted so as to enable a user to easily carry controller 101 on akeychain and/or wear it on a necklace and/or bracelet. In certainimplementations, controller device 101 may also take the form of, and/orbe incorporated into, a wrist watch and/or worn on the wrist through awatch band device.

As also shown in FIG. 10, each sensor 102 typically may include ahousing containing circuitry and/or other components that may includethe following:

Circuitry for external data communication with controller device 101,and certain implementations one and/or more computer devices 906,including a receiver 107, a transmitter 106, and/or an antenna 108.Antenna 108 typically transforms electromagnetic energy to electricalsignals provided to receiver 107, and/or transforms electrical signalsfrom transmitter 106 to electromagnetic energy for transmission toremote radio receivers in controller device 101 and/or in certainimplementations one and/or more computer devices 906. Receiver 107typically responds to the electrical signals from antenna 108 to producedetected data for supervisor device 109. Receiver 107 may includecircuits such as filters and/or demodulators. Transmitter 106 typicallyresponds to formatted data from supervisor device 109 to provide theelectrical signals to drive antenna 108. Transmitter 106 may includecircuits such as modulators and/or filters. Antenna 108, receiver 107,and/or transmitter 106 typically together form a radio communicationcircuit for two-way radio and/or other wireless communication withremote radio devices such as controller 101, and in certainimplementations one and/or more computer devices 906.

Vibration device 111 that typically may cause sensor 102 to vibrate asan indicator that the associated sensor 102 has been lost and/or found;that is, it has been moved beyond a preset distance and/or range fromcontroller 101, and/or in certain implementations, a computer device906; and/or once out of range, has been brought back within a presetdistance and/or range from controller 101 and/or computer device 906 asthe case may be.

Supervisor 109 that typically may control the operation of sensor 102.Supervisor device 109 may be implemented as a processor, microprocessor,digital signal processor (DSP), and/or any other logic circuit and/orcombination of circuits providing control functions. Supervisor device109 typically operates in response to data and/or program instructionsstored in memory 110. In one mode, supervisor device 109 typicallycontrols the radio and/or other wireless communication circuit bydirecting the tuning, activation, and/or deactivation of the circuit.

Memory unit and/or device 110 that typically may be capable of storingdata and/or program instructions for use with system 100 and/or sensor102.

A user interface 303 that lets a user control sensor 102 and in certainimplementations, includes a pushbutton, touchscreen, and/or otherbuilt-in actuator device to let the user to select programming optionsfor sensor device 102 (e.g., alarm sounds, volume and/or rangesettings), and/or a display screen sufficiently large to displayrequisite programming and/or other information for sensor 102. In someimplementations, user interface 303 may be omitted and/or obviated fromsensor 102.

An on-off switch 104, which in certain implementations may include anLED and/or other indicator to show when sensor 102 typically may beactive.

A battery of other power source 113 that may provide power sufficient tooperate sensor 102.

A speaker and/or other sound system 112 that is capable of emitting avariety of sounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.) to indicatethat sensor 102 has been lost and/or found (i.e., has been moved beyonda preset distance and/or range from controller 101, and/or in certainimplementations a computer device 906; and/or once out of range, hasbeen brought back within a preset distance and/or range from controller101 and/or computer device 906 as the case may be.

Mechanisms for attaching controller 101 and/or sensor 102 may beincluded, such as eyelet 115 and/or similar construction and/orattachments to the housing through which a chain, ring, etc. that may beinserted so as to enable a user to easily carry sensor 102 on a keychainand/or wear it on a necklace and/or bracelet. Sensors 102 may also haveadhesive, hook-and-loop type fasteners, and/or similar backing systemsto allow the same to be affixed to objects.

As also shown in FIG. 10B, system 100 may include one and/or morecomputer devices 906 that have been programmed with software program 401for system 100. Computer devices 906 may include a programmable cellphone (e.g., smartphone), PDA, and/or other handheld computer pad,tablet and/or similar device with telephone/email functionality, and incertain implementations may also include a desktop and/or laptopcomputer. Each computer device 906 has a construction, circuitry,operating system, email, text messaging and/or other software,processing and/or other features and abilities typically found in“off-the-shelf” products in the marketplace, including:

A display/monitor screen 302 and/or monitor enabling a user to view menuoptions, obtain information about and/or program controller 101 and/orsensors 102. Screen 302 may, in some implementations, display System 100information such as, but not limited to, each controller 101 and/orsensor 102; status (e.g., armed, disarmed, etc.) of each System 100device; the object 903 associated with each device; device programmingoptions (e.g., alarm sounds, range, alert recipients, 911 messaging,etc.); purchasing and/or contact information; and/or the like

User interface 303 to let user control computer device 906, which intypical implementations, may include a (a) keypad, touchscreen and/orother device for entering data and/or initiating actions, (b) a displayscreen, (c) a microphone and/or speaker, and/or the system software 401and/or one and/or more other software application programs forcontrolling the computer device 906 and/or other devices, processingreceived data, and/or producing a display based on the data. In theparticular exemplary implementation described herein user interface 303may include a display screen 302 sufficiently large to display graphicaland/or other data and/or text, and/or modalities for enabling a user toinput information, make selections, create messages for automateddelivery, and/or perform other tasks relevant to the operation of system100.

User interface 303 typically may allow a user to enter data and/orperform programing functions such as, but not limited to, setting therange, alarm sounds and other functions of System 100 device; enteringuser and/or third-party contact information and/or other data foremergency notifications; creating voice, text, and/or email messagecontent for automated alerts; setting device sound, dialing sequence,and/or other response/operating parameters for panic button 1005operation.

Memory unit and/or 110 capable of storing data, messages, programinstructions and/or other information associated with the operation ofsystem 100. Memory 110 may also store system software 401 and/or likedata.

In certain implementations vibration device 111 may be included thatcauses computer device 906 to vibrate as an indicator that controller101 and/or sensor 102 in system 100 has been lost and/or found (i.e.,has moved beyond a preset distance and/or range, and/or is brought backwithin a preset distance and/or range.

Speaker and/or other sound system 112 capable of emitting a variety ofsounds (e.g., siren, beep, whistle, gong, etc.) to indicate thatcontroller 101 and/or sensor 102 in system 100 has been lost and/orfound (i.e., has moved beyond a preset distance and/or range, and/or isbrought back within a preset distance and/or range). Speaker 112 mayalso sound a siren or other alarm if panic button 1005 is actuatedand/or may initiate certain sound/dialing silencing functions based onpanic button 1005 response settings.

Circuitry and functionality 201 for external data communication withnetwork devices so as to permit communication with controller 101 and/orsensors 102. Communications may be either or both wired (e.g., USB, IEEE1394, etc.) and/or wireless methods and/or devices (e.g., BLUETOOTH,and/or IEEE 802.11 and/or related standards, and/or other radio waveand/or wireless protocols). In certain cases the computer device 906 mayutilize a network interface (e.g., a digital modem and/or transceivercircuit for digital data communication) to link computer device 906 withcontroller 101 and/or sensors 102.

Alternatively, the network interface may be an entirely wireless circuitof any suitable type for wireless communication, as described elsewherein this application. Wireless interface 201 may communicate according toa wireless protocol (e.g., BLUETOOTH, IEEE Standard 802.11 and/orrelated standards, and/or cellular and/or like transceiver circuits).Also, circuits which communicate using unlicensed frequency bands may beused for data communication among system devices.

Telephone communication system 1010 for automatically dialing “911”and/or placing other calls, and/or playing prerecorded messages todesignated recipients based on loss and/or theft of a sensor 102 and/orcontroller 101, and/or a user pressing a panic button 1005.

Email and/or text messaging system 1015 for automatically deliveringpreprepared messages to designated recipients based on loss and/or theftof a sensor 102 and/or controller 101, contacting emergency services,and/or a user pressing a panic button 1005.

GPS Device and/or System 1020 for ascertaining user location and incertain circumstances, automatically transmitting that location toemergency services and/or other third parties based on loss and/or theftof a sensor 102 and/or controller 101, and/or a user pressing a panicbutton 1005.

Software application programs and system software 401 to enable computerdevice 906 to perform conventional operating functions and/or the novelfunctions of system 100; process received data; and/or produce a displaybased on the data. System software and/or application 401 may beconfigured as computer readable program code and/or stored in device'smemory 110.

FIGS. 11A-11C illustrate a first implementation of the present, novelsystem 100 system for automatically initiating an audible and/orvibratory alert in a first transceiver device, controller 101, and/orone and/or more second sensor devices 102. Alerts may be triggered inone of two ways: (i) the devices are separated from each other by apredetermined distance and/or range (such as through theft and/oroversight); and/or (ii) the devices are brought back within apredetermined distance and/or range of each other after having beenseparated. FIG. 11A depicts controller 101 and sensor 102 connected at adistance of approximately five feet over wireless connection 201; FIG.11B depicts the same controller 101 and sensor 102 having a brokenconnection 201 after exceeding a preset distance threshold (e.g., eightfeet) and sounding alarm from speakers 112; FIG. 11C depicts the samecontroller 101 and sensor 102 again reconnected via connection 201 andhaving silenced alarming speakers 112.

Each sensor device 102 in system 100 may have a unique sound so as todistinguish it from other sensor devices 102. The same sound programmedfor sensor device 102 typically may be also programmed to play incontroller 101 to alert a user that a particular sensor device 102 hasbeen lost and/or found. System's sensors 102 may be attached, affixed,inserted into, and/or worn on an object, person, and/or pet 903. Eachsensor device 102 has a unique digital signal that allows controllerdevice 101, through wireless communication link 201, to distinguish thatsensor device 102 from others. Controller device 101 has unique digitalsignals that allow it, through wireless communication link 201, tocommunicate with each sensor device 102 in system 100 (i.e., a distinctsignal tuned to each sensor device 102).

Controller device 101 maintains a communication link via a BLUETOOTH,infrared, radio and/or like short-range communication system 201 withone and/or more sensors 102. Sensor 102 may be preprogrammed and/orprogrammed by a user via device's user interface 303 and/or otherinternal mechanism, and/or via controller device 101 by a communicationlink 201) to (i) generate a distinct sound that distinguishes it fromother sensor devices 102 in system 100, and (ii) to have a set distanceand/or range from controller, so that if it moves beyond that rangeand/or distance, alarms typically may go off in sensor 102 and/orcontroller 101. Controller device 101 may be programmed as well so thatits alarm sound typically may be identical to the alarm sound of eachsensor device 102.

When controller 101 and sensor 102 in system 100 are separated by morethan a preset distance and/or range, alarms may be triggered in eachdevice. For example, if a sensor 102 with a certain range (e.g., one,two, three, five, ten, etc. feet) is placed inside a user's wallet and acontroller 101 is in the user's front pocket, vibration and/or audiblealarms may go off in sensor 102 and/or controller 101 if a pickpocketwere to take the wallet beyond the certain range from the owner'spocket, and/or if the user were to leave the wallet on a table and walkout of a restaurant. The alarms may continue for a preset period of time(e.g., five minutes) and then may discontinue; but may be reactivated ifcontroller 101 and/or wallet with sensor 102 were brought back withinthe communication range of the devices (e.g., ten, one hundred, onethousand feet, etc.). In some implementations, activation and/ordeactivation of alarms may be manually activated by user.

System 100 may include numerous sensors 102 (e.g., two, five, ten, onehundred, etc.), each of which may function in the same manner withrespect to triggering alarms when moving beyond, and/or back into, apreset distance and/or range from controller device 101. Controller 101typically may be programmed to distinguish each sensor 102 by itsspecial digital signature (e.g., frequency) and to communicate aseparate digital signal to each sensor device 102 linked to controller101 through wireless communication system 201. Controller 101 typicallymay store a unique alarm sound for each sensor 102 (e.g., gong, bell,siren, etc.) and/or play that alarm sound if sensor 102 moves out of,and/or back into, the preset distance and/or range. Controller 101typically may intermittently play the unique alarm sound for each ifmore than one sensor 102 at a time is moved out of the preset distanceand/or range, and/or brought back within that distance and/or range.

FIGS. 12A-12C illustrate a second implementation of the present noveltechnology underlying system 100. That implementation incorporates acomputer device 906 into system 100 as one of sensor devices 102. System100 includes a controller 101 that communicates with one and/or moresensors 102, including a computer device 906, via a BLUETOOTH, infrared,radio and/or like short-range communication system 201. Typically,controller 101 and/or sensor 102 and related computer device 906 includebuilt-in alarm systems to vibrate and/or play a distinct sound alertinga user as to when (i) controller 101 and/or sensor 102 (which in thisimplementation includes a computer device 906) have been separated bymore than a programmable distance and/or range from each other; and/or(ii) after having been separated for more than a defined period of time(e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes), are brought back in aprogrammable distance and/or range of each other.

FIG. 12A depicts controller 101 connected to sensor 102 and computerdevice 906 via wireless connection 201 at a distance of approximatelyfive feet. FIG. 12B depicts the same controller 101, sensor 102, andcomputer device 906; however, sensor 102 is now fifteen feet fromcontroller 101 and beyond the preset distance threshold (e.g., ten feetfor a time threshold of five seconds), triggering speakers in all threedevices to sound alarms. FIG. 12C depicts the same controller 101,sensor 102, and computer device 906 having been brought back into thepreset distance threshold, thus silencing the speakers 112.

With system software 401 installed in it, computer device 906establishes a communication link via a BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio and/orlike short-range communication system 201 with controller device 101,which in turn may maintain a communication link 201 with one and/or moresensors 102 in system 100, including computer device 906. Range, alarmsounds, and/or other settings for controller 101, sensors 102, and/orcomputer device 906 may be internally programmed by user interfaces ineach device, and/or through controller 101 and/or computer device 906via wireless communication system 201.

Computer device 906 typically establishes a communication link 201 witha controller device 101 and in some implementations may programcontroller device 101 to set the range, alarm sounds, volume, and/orother settings for each sensor 102 in system 100. Computer device 906functions as a sensor device 102 as well. When controller 101 and/orcomputer device 906 are separated by more than a preset distance and/orrange, identical alarms may be triggered in both devices. The alarmsinclude vibration in each device and/or a distinct alarm sound thatidentifies computer device 906 (e.g., siren, gong, fog horn, bell,etc.). The same alarm sound that is programmed to issue from computerdevice 906 may also issue from controller 101 as well. Once controller101 and/or computer device 906 are separated by more than the presetrange, the alarms in each device continue to sound for a predeterminedperiod of time (e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes) and/or untilthe devices move beyond their communication range (e.g., one, ten, onehundred, one thousand, etc. feet); after which, each device maysilenced. If, after being separated for more than the prescribed timeperiod and/or distance controller 101 and/or computer device 906 arebrought back within range, the alarms typically may again ring for thepreset period of time. In this way, a user may be alerted when computerdevice 906 and/or controller device 101 is lost and/or found. Inaddition and as with controller 101, computer device 906 vibrates and/orissues a distinct alarm sound for each sensor device 102 when thatdevice is lost and/or found.

System 100 may include numerous sensor devices 102, each of which mayfunction in the same manner with respect to separation from controller101. Controller 101 and/or computer device 906 may be each programmed todistinguish each sensor 102 by its digital signal (e.g., frequency),and/or play the sensor 102's unique sound (e.g., gong, bell, siren,etc.) when it is lost and/or found. Controller 101 may be alsoprogrammed to communicate a separate digital signal that may berecognized by each sensor device 102 linked to controller 101 throughwireless communication system 201. Controller 101 typically may store aunique alarm sound for each sensor device 102 (e.g., gong, bell, siren,etc.) and/or play that alarm sound if sensor 102 moves out of, and/orback into, the preset distance and/or range. Controller 101 typicallymay intermittently play the unique alarm sound for each if more than onesensor device 102 at a time is moved out of the preset distance and/orrange, and/or brought back within that distance and/or range.

FIGS. 13A-13D illustrate a third implementation of the present noveltechnology underlying system 100. That implementation replacescontroller 101 device with computer device 906. With system software 401installed, computer device 906 establishes a communication link 201 viaa BLUETOOTH, infrared, radio and/or like short-range communicationsystem 201 with all sensors 102 in system 100, and in someimplementations may program their range, alarm sounds, volume and/orother settings.

FIG. 13A depicts computer device 906 connected to sensor 102 viaconnection 201 at a distance of approximately ten feet. FIG. 13B depictsthe same computer device 906 no longer connected to sensor 102 viaconnection 201 at a distance of approximately twelve feet, havingexceeded distance threshold (e.g., ten feet for a time threshold of oneminute) and thus triggering speakers 112 to play alarms. FIG. 13Cdepicts the same computer device 906 and sensor 102 joined by a secondsensor 102, where the first sensor 102 at a distance of ten feet tocomputer device 906 has not exceeded the distance threshold and is notsounding alarm, but where the second sensor 102 at a distance of twentyfeet is exceeding the distance threshold and causes speakers 112 incomputer device 906 and second sensor 102 to sound alarms. FIG. 13Ddepicts computer device 906 and sensor 102 brought back into thedistance threshold and silencing the alarms from speakers 112.

As illustrated in FIGS. 13A-13D, when computer device 906 and/or asensor 102 are separated by more than a preset distance and/or range,identical alarms may be triggered in each device. The alarms includevibration in each device and/or a distinct alarm sound for each sensordevice 102 (e.g., siren, gong, fog horn, bell, etc.). The same alarmsound that may be programmed to issue from a sensor 102 issues fromcomputer device 906 as well. Once computer device 906 and/or sensordevice 102 are separated by more than the preset range, the alarms ineach device continue to sound for a predetermined period of time (e.g.,one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes); after which, each device may besilenced. If, after being separated for more than the prescribed timeperiod, computer device 906 and/or sensor 102 are brought back withinrange, the alarms typically may again go off and/or play for the presetperiod of time (e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes). In thisway, a user may be alerted when a sensor 102 and/or computer device 906is lost and/or found. If computer device 906 is lost and/or taken,and/or is later found (i.e., brought back within range, vibration and/orauditory alarms sound in all of sensors 102.

FIGS. 14A-14B illustrate a fourth implementation of the present noveltechnology underlying system 100 that may include all of the functionsfor the system 100 illustrated in this application, and also includes abuilt-in actuator device/Panic button 1005 as part of controller device101. Operationally, by pressing the panic button 1005, a user mayautomatically cause a handheld computer device 906 to dial “911” forhelp and/or send distress messages in emergency situations even if theuser typically may be unable to physically access computer device 906.Pressing the panic button 1005 a specified number of times automaticallycauses computer device 906 to dial 911 and/or send a prerecorded messagerequesting a specific type of assistance (e.g., 1 click=policeassistance; 2 clicks=emergency medical services (EMS) assistance; and/or3 clicks=fire rescue assistance). In some implementations, if a usercontinuously presses the actuator/panic button 1005, a siren and/orother alarm sound may be played from controller 101 and/or computerdevice 906. The user may cancel a distress call by pressing theactuator/panic button 1005 a preset number of times (e.g., 4 clicks).

As also illustrated in FIG. 14, system 100 may be configured so thatcertain 911 calls dial silently and/or turn off sounds from computerdevice's 906 speakers 112 so as not to alert an assailant and/orintruder that a distress call typically may be being placed. In additionto 911 messages, computer device 906 may be programmed to send messages(e.g., email, text, etc.) to third parties after an automated 911 callis placed. In further implementations, system 100 may activate GPSdevices 1020, activate microphones and/or other capture device of sensor102 and/or computer device 906, and/or send preprogrammed messages forlocating sensor 102 and/or computer device 906 (e.g., email InternetProtocol (IP) address, GPS location, closed wireless access point,etc.).

FIG. 14A depicts controller 101 having button 1005 thereon and connectedto telephone device 1010 and email/text device 1015. Upon activation ofbutton 1005, controller 101 may cause a phone call and/or messagethrough telephone device 1010 (e.g., distress call to emergencyservices) and/or a message (e.g., email, text, picture, etc.) to be sentto one or more recipients via email/text device 1015. FIG. 14B depictscomputer device 906 having button 1005 replacing controller 101 butstill connected to telephone device 1010 and email/text device 1015.FIG. 14B depicts only a phone call being triggered through telephonedevice 1010, but any combination of events may be triggered and/orprogrammed to occur via button 1005 actuation and/or multiple actuation.

FIGS. 15A-15C illustrates a fifth implementation of the present noveltechnology underlying system 100 that may include all of the functionsfor system, but includes the use of a fixed-location computer device906, such as a home and/or office PC and/or laptop with telephone and/oremail functionality. Operationally, by pressing actuator/Panic button1005 on controller device 101 in wireless network 201, a user mayautomatically cause computer device 906 in a home, office and/or otherfixed location with telephone communication capabilities via telephonedevice 1010 to dial for help in an emergency. This implementation mayalso integrate a mobile computer device 906 into system 100 to similarlyrespond to panic button 1005 when the user is outside of a staticlocation. As illustrated in FIG. 15, the devices in system 100 mayperform all and/or substantially all of the functions, and/or havesubstantially all of the features noted elsewhere in this application,including the ability to automatically dial “911” and/or sendprerecorded messages in the event of an emergency by pressingcontroller's panic button 1005.

When controller 101 is out of range of the stationary computer 906(e.g., when the user leaves the home area network and/or is mobile),handheld computer device 906 may act as the communication interface forinitiating “911” and/or other calls and/or sending alerts. If handheldcomputer device 906 and/or stationary computer device 906 are bothturned “on” and/or within range of controller 101, the closest computerdevice 906 typically may initiate “911” dialing and/or notificationalerts. Integration of fixed location computer device 906 and/or ahandheld computer device 906 enables the handheld device 906 to interactwith and/or respond to controller 101 when the handheld device 906 is ata fixed location (e.g., a home and/or office) and/or while the user isout of range of fixed-location computer device 906. Similarly, staticcomputer device 906 and/or handheld computer device 906 may provide“lost and found” functions by monitoring one and/or more sensors 102 inthe home and/or on the go.

FIG. 15A depicts controller 101 connected over wireless connection 201to static computer device 906, which is in turn connected to telephonedevice 1010 and landline telephone service (e.g., twisted pair coppertelephone, VOIP, etc.). FIG. 15B depicts another computer device 906(mobile and/or static) with button 1005 connected to static computerdevice 906, which is in turn connected to telephone device 1010. Uponactivation of button 1005, static computer device 906 is signaled tosend one or more messages to one or more recipients over the landlinetelephone service. FIG. 15C depicts mobile computer device 906 withbutton 1005 communicating with static computer device 906, which in turnactivates telephone device 1010 to send one or more messages to one ormore recipients over the landline telephone service, thus allowing aremote user to perform one or more activities over a physical system(i.e., a landline telephone system, a cable internet system, etc.).

FIGS. 16A-16K illustrate one implementation of a menu system and otherscreenshots for system software 401 that typically may be installed oneach computer device 906 in system 100. The illustrations in FIGS.16A-16 k underscore certain of the functionalities of system 100 and the“look and feel” of the system software 401. It is to be noted that theillustrated menu system and screenshots are exemplary only. Other menusystems and screenshots may be readily developed and provide additionalfunctionalities and capabilities.

FIG. 16A depicts Main menu 801, which typically may be a samplescreenshot of a Home Page and main menu 801 of system software program401 for computer devices 906 in system 100. Main Menu 801 gives usersvarious options for configuring and/or using system; obtaining answersto questions; configuring system devices; checking the status of systemdevices; purchasing additional devices; setting up 911 messages and/oralerts; etc. The selections of subpages accessed through main menu 801typically are illustrated in 802-810 on FIGS. 16B-16K, respectively. Byclicking on a link to a subpage in main menu 801, the user may be takento the relevant subpage. From any subpage 802-810, by clicking on a mainmenu link, the user typically may be returned to home/main menu 801.

FIG. 16B depicts System Overview and Instructions page 802, whichtypically provides the user with brief descriptions of different systemcomponents and/or software features. This page typically instructs theuser in the operation of the system/program and/or describes itscomponent devices and/or functions. By clicking on any definitionaland/or descriptive item highlighted on this page, the user may either betaken to another subpage with information and/or actions the user mayperform (e.g., programming and/or testing devices), and/or the user maybe taken to another subpage providing further information and/ordefinitions.

FIG. 16C depicts Protected List page 803, which typically provides theuser with a detailed inventory of devices 102 in system 100; objects,people, and/or pets 903 with which sensor devices 102 may be associated;and/or the range, sound and/or volume settings for each system device.The page also allows the user to see the status (“on” and/or “off”) ofsystem devices, and/or to see settings for any controller device 101with a panic button 1005 functionality (e.g., the number of clicksneeded to summon police assistance; whether silent dialing is turned onand/or off; and/or whether audible alarm sounds may be activated).Finally, from this page, the user may see the types of alert messagesand/or recipients that have been programmed into system 100. The usermay modify settings shown on this page and/or add information byclicking on a “Device Settings” link; and/or may also modify and/or addcontacts and/or messages for alerts by clicking on an EmergencyNotification link (i.e., the parties that may be notified automaticallyby delivery from computer device 906 of a preset message).

FIG. 16D depicts Device setting page 804, which typically containsprogramming instructions and allows users to input information toprogram system devices. From this page, the user may be able to click onlinks to subpages where specific actions may be taken. Those actionsinclude (i) programming alarm sounds and/or distances/ranges for sensors102 and/or controller 101 (if included in system 100); turning deviceson and off; associating sensors 102 with objects, people, and/or pets903; and/or setting up emergency notifications in the event of certainlosses and/or other situations.

FIG. 16E depicts Emergency notifications page 805, which typically letsa user configure notices that may be sent to the user and/or other thirdparties. Those notices may be sent in certain cases where the computerdevice 906 detects the loss of an object, person, and/or pet wearing,carrying and/or to which there is affixed, a sensor 102. Through variousdrop-down menus, the user may be able to specify recipients ofnotifications; enter contact information for the user and/or designatedrecipients; elect to use and/or customize predefined messages; specifywhich sensor devices 102 typically may trigger alert notices in theevent they are taken and/or lost; etc. Notification messages typicallymay be delivered to recipients by voice and/or text and/or emailmessages, subject to the hardware and/or software capabilities of theuser's computing device 906 and/or 701. For example, the system software401 may include voice-to-text messaging (i.e., typically may cause thecomputer device 906 to type messages based on the user's spoken words);and/or typically may provide for text-to-voice messaging (i.e.,typically may cause the computer device 906 to verbally play back for911 and/or other third parties messages that have been prewritten forthe program and/or that are recorded by the user).

FIG. 16F depicts 911 assistance page 806, which typically containsinstructions for using, and governs the operation of, the automatedemergency dialing features of system 100 where controller device 101 maybe equipped with a panic button 1005. This page allows users to controlvarious settings and/or features related to automated dialing services.As discussed elsewhere in this application, based on the number of timesa user clicks (presses) on actuator/panic button 1005, automated callstypically may be made through computer device 906 to 911 requestingpolice, EMS, and/or fire rescue services. Operationally, the computerdevice 906 may typically be in range of the controller 101 when panicbutton 1005 is pressed. Once computer device 906 receives the signalthrough wireless communication link 201, system software 401 causescomputer device 906 to, typically immediately, dial 911 and/or play aprerecorded message requesting assistance for the user and/or explainingthat the user cannot physically access the phone. Through this screenpage 806, the user may set various parameters for the 911 dialingfeatures, including (i) activating “silent dialing” and/or speakersilencing so that an assailant is not alerted to the call; (ii)including personalized information (e.g., medical conditions, allergies,etc.) in messages to 911; sending copies of 911 messages to thirdparties specified by the user (based on their contact information storedin computer device's 906 memory 110); adding automated GPS positioningmessages to 911 messages; and/or selecting the type of messages to besent to third parties (i.e., voice, text, email, and/or the like). Tofurther facilitate the understanding and/or use of automated 911 dialingand/or panic button 1005 functionality, through the drop down menu on911 assistance page 806, a user accesses separate subpages withdefinitions and explanations 807, depicted on FIGS. 16G-16H.

FIG. 16I depicts use of functions and/or directions on Find and Seekpage 808, which typically allows users to cause computing device 906 tofind objects, people, and/or pets that have been lost. From a dropdownmenu, the user may select a sensor 102 that may be attached to an itemthat has been lost (e.g., an eyeglass case with a sensor 102 affixed toit that has been misplaced in the home). By clicking on the relevantdevice name and/or number on this subpage, the user may cause computerdevice 906 to send a signal to lost sensor 102. If lost sensor 102 iswithin computer device's 906 maximum range (determined by wirelesscommunication system 201), sensor 102's distinct alarm sound typicallymay be activated in sensor 102 and/or computer device 906 for a presetperiod of time (e.g., one, five, ten, twenty, etc. minutes).

FIG. 16J depicts Test System screen page 809, which typically allows auser to test the operating status of devices in system 100 to make surethey may be operational, charged (in relation to battery life)), etc.Using a dropdown menu, the user may select each system device (i.e.,controller 101 and/or sensors 102 to be tested. By following theinstructions and/or clicking on the specified device, alarm soundstypically may be triggered if it is working. If not working, the usermay seek solutions by clicking on a link to a Troubleshooting subpage.

FIG. 16K depicts Alert Notification screen page 810, which typicallyprovides a user with a visual display notifying that a breach hasoccurred in system 100. This screen flashes on and off at the same timethat vibration and/or sound alarms are playing in the computer device906. The screen also provides pertinent information to the user as tothe nature of the breach, which may include (i) the identification ofthe controller 101 and/or sensor 102 that has been taken (i.e., movedout of the predetermined range and/or distance) from the controller 101and/or computer device 906; (ii) the object, person, and/or petassociated with the device (if it is a sensor 102); the time of thebreach; and (iv) the parties notified of the breach. The screen may alsolet the user turn off all alarms.

As illustrated in FIGS. 17A-17B, another implementation of the presentnovel technology relates automatically initiating a remote emergencycall from a cellular telephone, PDA, portable computer and/or likecommunication device that may function like controller 101. System 100typically includes cellular telephone and/or other communication device(such as a PDA) 101 that has been preprogrammed with an emergency voice,text, and/or email message and/or messages 920 and which likewiseincludes a BLUETOOTH, infrared, and/or like communication system 307 forreceiving a call and/or message initiation signal. Typically, cellulartelephone and/or PDA device 101 also includes a GPS location device 1020for assessing its location and/or providing the same as part of and/orin addition to message(s) 920.

The system 100 further includes a remote actuator device 940 forsignaling controller device 101 to initiate the call, text, and/or emailmessage(s). Typically, remote actuator device 940 includes a transceiver307 for communicating an activation signal over communication link 201to controller 101 and/or an actuator switch 1005 for actuating the same.Transceiver 307 may be typically connected to power source 113, such asa battery, for generating the signal.

In operation, remote actuator device 940, having the form of a foband/or like object, may be actuated by its trigger switch and/or button1005 in an emergency situation. Transceiver 307 emits actuation signal,which may be received by cellular telephone and/or PDA device 101,initiating telephone and/or PDA device 101 to transmit its emergencymessage 920. Typically, message 920 may be a 911 call and/or the like(which may include a voice message and/or a text and/or email message),but may also be individualized in content and/or destination (e.g., amessage may be sent to EMS and/or the police based on local 911services; but may also be sent to a spouse, parent, and/or the like).Message 920 may typically include GPS location information. The messagemay also be different based on different “clicks” of the transceiver.For example, one click may be programmed to send a message such as“Help: I'm being assaulted; cannot speak; and/or need assistanceimmediately at the following address;” two clicks may be programmed tosend a message such as “I'm in a medical crisis; cannot speak on thephone; and/or need emergency medical services immediately at thefollowing address; and/or three clicks may be programmed to send amessage such as “there is a fire; send fire rescue.” Initiation ofmessage 920 may likewise cue controller 101 for remote querying of itslocation by responders and/or remote audio and/or video monitoring ofthe situation. Remote device 910 may be either physically activated byclicking and/or pressing a trigger switch and/or button 1005 and/or maybe voice activated. For a voice activation model, the device 940 mayinclude a microphone capable of detecting voice commands and/or sendinga signal to the phone and/or PDA device 101 activating a call and/ordelivery of a text and/or email message to the police, EMS, and/or otherrecipients 960.

For alerts involving threat to life and/or limb, system 100 may need tobe silently activated and/or silenced, for example usingreceiver/silencer device 1105 so as not to alert and/or antagonize anassailant. Receiver/silencer 1105 may receive a signal from transceiver307 and initiate one or more commands to cell phone/PDA device 101including, but no limited to, turning on/off the phone/PDA device 101;transmitting voice and/or data (e.g., text messages, emails, and/or thelike); initiating silent modes for system 100 (e.g., in even of animminent assault, dialing out and/or sending messages silently soassailant cannot hear call for help, shutting of speaker 112 so thatassailant cannot hear responses from emergency services or others,activating and/or sending GPS coordinates, and/or the like), and/or thelike. System 100 may also shut off voice response from a call recipient960. In other words, once an emergency message 920 is sent to thepolice, the controller 101 may need to cut off incoming conversation soas to avoid an assailant overhearing a conversation from the responder.In other implementations, the override system may not be needed for asummons to EMS not involving physical assault.

While the novel technology has been illustrated and described in detailin the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be consideredas illustrative and not restrictive in character. It is understood thatthe embodiments have been shown and described in the foregoingspecifications in satisfaction of the best mode and enablementrequirements. It is further understood that one of ordinary skill in theart could readily make a nigh-infinite number of insubstantial changesand modifications to the above-described embodiments and that it wouldbe impractical to attempt to describe all such embodiment variations inthe present specification. Accordingly, it is understood that allchanges and modifications that come within the spirit of the noveltechnology are desired to be protected.

While a particular embodiment of the present invention has been shownand described, modifications may be made. It is therefore intended inthe appended claims to cover such changes and modifications which followin the true spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A personal security system for automaticallywarning a user when an item passes a predetermined threshold,comprising: a first transceiver; at least one second transceiver incommunication with the first transceiver via a wireless communicationlink, wherein the wireless communication link has a predeterminedoperating distance; a first memory operationally connected to the firsttransceiver and capable of storing a first predetermined signal; a firstprocessor operationally connected to the first memory; at least onesecond memory operationally connected to the at least one secondtransceiver and capable of storing at least one second predeterminedsignal; at least one second processor operationally connected to the atleast one second memory; wherein when the first transceiver and the atleast one second transceiver are separated by a separation distanceexceeding the predetermined operating distance, the first transceivergenerates the first predetermined signal and the at least one secondtransceiver generates the at least one second predetermined signal; andwherein, after being so separated, the first transceiver and the atleast one second transceiver are brought back within the separationdistance, the first transceiver again generates the first predeterminedsignal and the at least one second transceiver again generates the atleast one second predetermined signal.
 2. The personal security systemof claim 1, further comprising: a first vibration device operationallyconnected to the first transceiver; and a first sound deviceoperationally connected to the first transceiver.
 3. The personalsecurity system of claim 1, further comprising: at least one secondvibration device operationally connected to the at least one secondtransceiver; and at least one second sound device operationallyconnected to the at least one second transceiver.
 4. The personalsecurity system of claim 1, wherein the first transceiver and the atleast one second transceiver are independently programmable withoptional settings.
 5. The personal security system of claim 4, whereinthe first transceiver is configured to program optional settings for thefirst transceiver and the at least second transceiver.
 6. The personalsecurity system of claim 1, further comprising: a first user interfaceincluding a display screen operationally connected to the firsttransceiver.
 7. The personal security system of claim 1, furthercomprising: a hand-held computer device capable of functions selectedfrom the group consisting of telephonic, messaging, email, andcombinations thereof; a memory operationally connected to the hand-heldcomputer device and capable of storing a third predetermined signal; amicroprocessor operationally connected to the hand-held computerdevice's memory; a user interface including a display screenoperationally connected to the hand-held computer device; a dataprocessor operationally connected to the hand-held computer device; avibration device operationally connected to the hand-held computerdevice; a sound device operationally connected to the hand-held computerdevice; a communication link connecting the hand-held computer devicewith the first transceiver and having a predetermined operatingdistance; wherein the hand-held computer device is configured torecognize digital signals, make preset responses to digital signals, andrespond to digital signals to program optional settings and respond in apreset way; wherein the hand-held computer is capable of displayinginformation in response to digital signals; wherein the memory of thehand-held computer device is capable of storing a database containingcontact information; wherein the memory of the hand-held computer deviceis capable of storing optional settings; wherein the memory of thehand-held computer device is capable of storing messages; wherein thehand-held computer device is configured to automatically send at leastone message to at least one recipient in response to digital signalsfrom the first transceiver and the at least one second transceiver;wherein upon separation of the first transceiver, the at least onesecond transceiver, and the hand-held computer device by a distanceexceeding the predetermined operating distance, the first transceivergenerates the first predetermined signal, the at least one secondtransceiver generates the at least one second predetermined signal, andthe hand-held computer device generates the third predetermined signal;wherein, after being so separated, the first transceiver, the at leastone second transceiver, and the hand-held computer device are broughtback within the predetermined operating distance, the first transceiveragain generates the first predetermined signal, the at least one secondtransceiver again generates the at least one second predeterminedsignal, and the hand-held computer device again generates the thirdpredetermined signal; and wherein the hand-held computer is capable ofautomatically delivering the at least one message upon separation from amember selected from the group consisting of the first transceiver, theat least one second transceiver, and combinations thereof.
 8. Thepersonal security system of claim 7, wherein the hand-held computerdevice is selected from the group consisting of the first transceiverand the at least one second transceiver.
 9. The personal security systemof claim 7, further comprising: an actuator device operationallyconnected to the first transceiver; wherein depressing the actuator apreset number of times triggers the hand-held computer device to sendthe messages; wherein the hand-held computer device is configured toinitiate an automated dialing sequence upon receiving digital signalsfrom the first transceiver as a result of a user depressing the actuatordevice; wherein the hand-held computer device is configured to establishtelephonic dialing, redialing, and disconnection protocols; wherein thehand-held computer device is configured to make an automatic connectionto emergency services upon receiving a signal from the first transceiverafter the user depresses the actuator device; wherein the hand-heldcomputer device is configured to deliver a preset message to operatorsafter the connection to emergency services upon receiving a signal fromthe first transceiver after the user depresses the actuator device;wherein the preset message delivered to the emergency services containsuser information; wherein the hand-held computer device is configured todisplay information upon receiving signals upon receiving a signal fromthe first transceiver after the user depresses the actuator device;wherein the hand-held computer device is configured to controltelephonic features of the hand-held computer device based upon thenumber of times the actuator device is pressed; wherein the hand-heldcomputer device is configured to emit an alarm sound based upondepressing the actuator device in a preset manner; wherein the hand-heldcomputer device is configured to cancel dialing sequences based upon thenumber of times the actuator device depressed; and wherein the presetmessage delivered to emergency services contains global positioningsystem (GPS) coordinates.
 10. The personal security system of claim 9,further comprising: a computer based in a fixed location, wherein thecomputer has telephone, messaging, and email capabilities; acommunication link having a predetermined operating distance capable ofconnecting the computer with first transceiver, the at least one secondtransceiver, and the hand-held computer device; a memory operationallyconnected to the computer capable of storing predetermined signals; aprocessor operationally connected to the memory and operationallyconnected to the computer; a user interface including a display screenoperationally connected to the computer; a sound device operationallyconnected to the computer; and wherein the computer and the hand-heldcomputer device automatically negotiate priority to dial emergencyservices and send a preset message when the user depresses the actuator;wherein the computer and the hand-held computer device are configured toperform the same functions; wherein the hand-held computer device gainspriority when the first transceiver is taken outside of the fixedlocation; and wherein the hand-held computer device gains priority whenthe at least one second transceiver is taken outside of the fixedlocation.
 11. The personal security system of claim 10, wherein thefirst transceiver, the at least one second transceiver, the hand-heldcomputer device, and the computer contain a complementary radiocommunication circuit for transmitting and receiving digital signals andcommunicating information.
 12. The personal security system of claim 11,wherein the complementary radio communication circuit comprisesBLUETOOTH transceivers.
 13. The personal security system of claim 12,further comprising: a menu system navigable by the user.
 14. A methodfor providing a personal security system, comprising: transmittingdigital signals between a first transceiver and at least one secondtransceiver; detecting a separation beyond a predetermined range of thefirst transceiver and the at least one second transceiver; andactivating at least a first alarm in a device selected from the groupconsisting of the first transceiver, the at least one secondtransceiver, and combinations thereof.
 15. The method of claim 14,further comprising: detecting when the first transceiver and the atleast one second transceiver are brought within the predetermined range;and performing a function when the first transceiver and the at leastone second transceiver are brought within the predetermined rangeselected from the group of silencing the at least one first alarm,activating the at least one first alarm, and combinations thereof. 16.The method of claim 14, further comprising: transmitting at least onesignal from the first transceiver and the at least one secondtransceiver to a receiver selected from the group consisting of ahand-held computer device, a static computer, and combinations thereof;programming settings in the first transceiver and the at least onesecond transceiver; displaying information based on the at least onesignal on a display screen selected from the group consisting of thehand-held computer device, the computer, and combinations thereof; andactivating predetermined responses based on the at least one signal onthe receiver selected from the group consisting of the hand-heldcomputer device, the computer, and combinations thereof.
 17. The methodof claim 16, further comprising: activating an alarm sound in the firsttransceiver based on depressing an actuator in the first transceiver;detecting the depressing of the actuator a number of times; andactivating an automated response based on the number of times theactuator is depressed in a remotely located device selected from thegroup consisting of the hand-held computer device, the computer, andcombinations thereof; and wherein the automated response is selectedfrom a group consisting of dialing a telephone number, sending a textmessage, sending an email, and/or combinations thereof.
 18. The methodof claim 17, further comprising: communicating data through a wirelesscommunication system from the first transceiver and the at least onesecond transceiver to at least one computer device from a sourceselected from the group consisting of the first transceiver, the atleast one second transceiver, and combinations thereof; and displayingthe communicated data on at least one display screen operationallyconnected to the at least one computer devices.
 19. A system forautomatically generating an emergency call from a remotely locatedcommunications device, comprising: a communications device; a firsttransceiver operationally connected to the communications device; amemory operationally connected to the communications device andconfigured to store at least one message in the memory; a firstmicroprocessor operationally connected to the memory, to the firsttransceiver, and to the communications device; at least one secondtransceiver configured to generate at least one signal to the firsttransceiver; at least one actuator switch operationally connected to theat least one second transceiver for initiating the at least one signal;wherein energizing the at least one actuator switch initiates the atleast one signal from the at least one second transceiver to the firsttransceiver; wherein receipt of the at least one signal by the firsttransceiver initiates transmission of the at least one message to apredetermined recipient over a communications network; and wherein theat least one second transceiver is separate from the communicationsnetwork.